Wellness therapies and Swiss Alpine air are a remedy for body and soul

As I journey from Zürich into the Swiss countryside, the scenery transforms from cityscapes into towering snow-capped peaks and rugged cliffs shrouded by wispy clouds. The reflection on the river Rhine is dazzling as the last rays of the winter sun glint off the calm waters. I feel more relaxed with every passing minute as we near our destination.

 

From the serenity of the landscape alone, it’s easy to see why travellers seeking an escape from day-to-day life would be enticed by Switzerland. But it’s the country’s world-renowned medical spas, cutting-edge healthcare system, fresh Alpine air and reputation for incredible hospitality that make Switzerland one of Europe’s top wellness destinations.

 

After an hour’s train ride, I arrive in Bad Ragaz, a historic spa town nestled in the foothills of the Alps. Its proximity to the Tamina Gorge gives this destination its allure, attracting health seekers since the 13th century when the healing, geothermal waters were first discovered.

 

These waters flow throughout Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, which is set amid acres of greenery and home to three five-star properties: Grand Hotel Quellenhof and Spa Suites, Grand Hotel Hof Ragaz and Palais Bad Ragaz.

 

Here, the resort itself is the destination. With an extensive spa treatment menu, abundant dining options, retail therapy and even a casino, we are told there is little reason to venture from the grounds (aside from perhaps enjoying a stroll to the Rhine) – and I’m more than happy to oblige.

 

Rest and Rejunevate

 

On my first morning, I awaken naturally to the sun streaming through my window, illuminating the gold decor of my suite. I fling open the balcony doors and breathe in the crisp mountain air. Gazing at the mountains around the resort while sipping my herbal tea, I feel free in the vast, secluded valley, yet protected by the towering peaks that surround me.

 

The resort itself is contemporary yet timeless, with touches of grandeur immersed within century-old architecture. As I checked in to Grand Hotel Quellenhof, I couldn’t take my eyes off a chandelier, which is made up of 2,500 blue and white baubles cascading 16 metres in the centre of the grand spiral staircase – an artistic representation of the healing thermal waters that run through the property.

 

I make my way to the Helena Bath just after it opens at 7.30am to start my day with a refreshing swim in the 35C waters. The balmy temperature and minerals are said to trigger positive reactions in the body, such as stimulating metabolism and improving heart function, so that even a 30-minute dip leaves you feeling invigorated.

 

The plethora of saunas across the resort, which vary in temperature and humidity, also boast countless healing properties. The infrared sauna is popular due to its claimed ability to assist with anti-ageing and skin rejuvenation.

 

The rest of my day includes lunch at Mediterranean restaurant Olives d’Or and a trip to the Thermal Baths, where an 80-minute aromatherapy experience leaves me feeling utterly relaxed and rested – I practically sleepwalk back to my suite.

 

Other treatments include holistic remedies such as haki flow sessions, plus cellular regeneration and firming facials. During my stay, I realise that Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is not exclusively for a particular clientele; couples, groups and solo travellers on a recovery retreat are all soaking up the calming atmosphere of the resort.

 

Bad Ragaz is increasingly attracting younger, health-conscious guests too, especially post-pandemic. I’m particularly surprised to see families with children – that is until I learn about the extensive facilities to keep little ones entertained.

 

From water games and mermaid swimming in the family spa to children’s massages, younger guests can get a taste of wellness too.

 

What’s more, parents can use the Children’s Villa if they are booked in for a treatment during the day, and evening care can be arranged on request for those who want a date night.

 

Healthy habits

 

As travellers become increasingly aware of their health, they are not only seeking a gentle weekend of R&R, but hyper-personalised programmes with long-lasting effects. Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is home to an advanced medical spa centre that offers rehabilitation and recovery treatments, as well as prescriptions for preventative lifestyle habits.

 

Treatment packages include the Detox and Health Cleansing programme, which aims to improve metabolism, cleanse the gut and stabilise the immune system, while the Smart Ageing package includes treatments such as pore lasering and ozone therapy.

 

The resort’s wellbeing ethos, termed the New You Method, encourages guests to make everyday changes to maintain health and prevent illness without sacrificing joy. While I don’t have time to fully commit to a habitual transformation – most guests stay for about three weeks – I do get a taste of some of the rituals that can be easily replicated at home to lead to a healthier lifestyle.

 

I try out the 24-hour fitness facilities, which offer group classes such as aquafit, Pilates, strength training and body forming, as well as personal training sessions.

 

During an hour-long awareness exercise designed to engage both mind and body, I’m instructed to focus on every part of my anatomy, following an imagined ball of fire to every joint and muscle, tensing and relaxing to connect the dots on all the pieces of myself. It’s such a simple routine, yet it makes me realise how little time I spend being mindful.

 

Culinary excellence

 

While the culinary offering at wellness retreats often focuses on clean eating, high nutritional value and nourishing our gut microbiome, the three bars and seven restaurants – with six Michelin stars – at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz mean indulgence is firmly on the menu.

 

One-Michelin-starred Verve by Sven is a standout. Every dish is balanced and light, yet bursting with creative flair. We enjoy cauliflower cooked in four different ways, followed by pike-perch fillet with beurre blanc and a herby pea salad.

 

With every course, our server recommends a local Swiss wine pairing, accompanied by the back story of each bottle and vineyard. Another must-visit is Memories, which serves its three-Michelin-starred modern Alpine cuisine in an open kitchen setting. Tables are separated by sinuous wooden dividers that create privacy and an intimate feel.

 

We’re told the venue is designed to appeal to every sense for an all-encompassing experience. Tucked away behind a curtain – so discreet I didn’t notice it the first time I walked past – is the exclusive, cosy, two-Michelin-starred Igniv, which offers fine-dining sharing plates.

 

It’s the perfect date night spot. For clients who aren’t convinced by wellness escapes, the gastronomic experience at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is enough of a reason to book a stay.

 

The atmosphere of many of the restaurants is as appealing as the food itself, with understated decor and a ‘wear what makes you comfortable’ dress code.

 

Although my two-night stay comes to an end far too quickly, I leave feeling pampered and with a determined resolve to implement the habits I’ve learned, which will make a world of difference to my physical and mental health – while not forgoing life’s pleasures, of course.

 

Alpine Air

 

The concierge team at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz recommends its favourite things to do around the property

 

Stroll through our parks, gardens and golf courses to discover the sculptures scattered throughout the grounds.

 

Every three years, Bad Ragaz turns into Bad RagARTz, Europe’s largest outdoor sculpture exhibition. Our owner family are passionate art collectors and they commission one sculpture every year for their private collection, which is exhibited in the park.

 

Hike up to the ruins of castle Wartenstein to enjoy the best view of the valley. The trek takes up to two hours.

 

Visit the mystical Tamina Gorge and discover the origins of our body-warm healing thermal water. A bus will take you directly to the historic baroque bathing house, Pfäfers.

 

Book it: Nightly rates at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz start from £296 based on two people sharing.
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